Selma, CA
Population 24,586 · California
About Selma, CA
Selma is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 24,586 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,839 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Selma features a median home value of $288,700, which is 18% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Selma in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,202, 3% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,985 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (4,519 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (3,123 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Selma shows an unemployment rate of 12.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Selma have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.4% of Selma residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 79.9% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 22.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Selma, CA
Compared to national averages, Selma has a median household income of $55,839 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $288,700, which is 18% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,202 is 3% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Selma's income is 43% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 56% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Selma, CA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,839) that falls below the national average. However, Selma’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Selma has a population of 24,586 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Selma with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Selma
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maywood | 24,593 | $61,655 | $595,000 | Compare |
| Soledad | 24,476 | $93,204 | $571,600 | Compare |
| Bloomington | 24,324 | $81,220 | $443,300 | Compare |
| Patterson | 24,306 | $93,542 | $427,400 | Compare |
| Seal Beach | 24,868 | $83,045 | $492,200 | Compare |
| Riverbank | 24,881 | $90,216 | $442,300 | Compare |
| Loma Linda | 25,021 | $82,824 | $557,800 | Compare |
| Bay Point | 24,065 | $80,684 | $479,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Selma With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Selma
What is the population of Selma, CA?
The population of Selma, CA is 24,586 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in California.
What is the median household income in Selma?
The median household income in Selma, CA is $55,839 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Selma?
The median home value in Selma, CA is $288,700, which is 18% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Selma?
The median monthly rent in Selma, CA is $1,202, which is 3% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Selma?
The unemployment rate in Selma, CA is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Selma, CA a good place to live?
Selma offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 24,586 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Selma, CA?
11.4% of residents in Selma aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Selma?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Selma, CA: median home value is $288,700 (18% above national), median rent is $1,202/month, and median household income is $55,839. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Selma?
The poverty rate in Selma, CA is 19.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Selma, CA?
Selma's population is 79.9% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 22.7% of residents are foreign-born.